Lipohypertrophy
Also known as: Lipo
Fatty lumps under the skin that develop from repeated insulin injections or infusion sets at the same site.
Lipohypertrophy is the buildup of fatty tissue under the skin at sites of repeated insulin injection. Insulin acts as a growth factor for fat tissue; injecting repeatedly into the same location causes localized fat cell proliferation over months to years.
Affected areas feel firm, rubbery, or doughy and may not visually differ much from surrounding tissue. The clinical problem is that insulin absorption from lipohypertrophic tissue is erratic — up to 25% less predictable than from healthy tissue — leading to unexplained glucose variability.
Prevention centers on site rotation: systematically moving injections across all available anatomical sites and never reinjecting within 1 cm of a recent injection. Lipo is largely reversible — avoiding an affected area for 6–12 months allows much of the tissue to resolve.
Frequently asked
What is Lipohypertrophy?
Fatty lumps under the skin that develop from repeated insulin injections or infusion sets at the same site. Lipohypertrophy is the buildup of fatty tissue under the skin at sites of repeated insulin injection. Insulin acts as a growth factor for fat tissue; injecting repeatedly into the same location causes localized fat cell proliferation over months to years.
How does Lipohypertrophy relate to Medicare coverage?
Medicare Part B covers most durable medical equipment related to Lipohypertrophy. Contact us to verify your specific coverage for related diabetic supplies.
Where can I get diabetic supplies related to Lipohypertrophy in Phoenix?
We deliver Medicare-covered diabetic supplies throughout the Phoenix metro area. Call us or complete the form above to verify your coverage.